S/3295 Antique Treen 18th Century Ash Rasp for Crushing and Grinding Tobacco Leaves

A rare early 18th century ash rasp for crushing and grinding tobacco leaves, in the form of a mortar with serrated metal plates on the pestle and at the base of the mortar, which has an opening at the bottom leading into an elongated lidded compartment for the snuff. It has a small sliding door at the end. The whole, beautifully made of well grained ash, has a lovely colour and patination.

There is a similar one illustrated in the book, Domestic Utensils of Wood by Owen Evan-Thomas on page 76, plate 28.

We have replaced the pestle, as it was missing when purchased.

Sold 6½ in. (16.5 cm.) Wide
2½ in. (6.5 cm.) Deep
5½ in. (14 cm.) High
English Circa 1720